On the Move Poems about Migration

Michael Rosen — 2020

Former Children's Laureates Michael Rosen and Sir Quentin Blake join forces for a personal and uniquely affecting collection of poems about migration. "What you leave behind Won't leave your mind. But home is where you find it. Home is where you find it." Michael Rosen and Sir Quentin Blake join forces for a landmark new collection, focusing on migration and displacement. Michael's poems are divided into four: in the first series, he draws on his childhood as part of a first-generation Polish family living in London; in the second, on his perception of the War as a young boy; in the third, on his "missing" relatives and the Holocaust; and in the fourth, and final, on global experiences of migration. By turns charming, shocking and heart-breaking, this is an anthology with a story to tell and a powerful point to make: "You can only do something now."

Reviews

Ruth Parker @ruth

Nov 18, 2021

Oh my gosh my heart. This collection of poems has be sobbing. I loved My Friend Roger, which broke my heart, English Literature, which made me think and Don’t Drown that made me cry. A beautiful collection, Michael Rosen is an amazing poet and Quentin Blake’s illustrations are, as always, perfect.

Stefie @stefiereads

Aug 26, 2021

I first know Michael Rosen, from his picture book called "Sad Book" and that book made me cry. It helped me so much when my grandpa passed away last year. Now this book, had me think and made me teary as well. Reading this book is like reading a glimpse of Michael's family life, which it is. It is so personal and it feels almost like reading his journal. The way he writes is just beautiful and compelling. A short read but a very meaningful one. Relevant then and now too. A must read for everyone and a great introduction and insight for young reader about WW2. Also, Quentin's Blake illustrations really stunning!